Lung Function Tests

• Spirometry is the most commonly used lung function test.
• If your spirometry tests are normal but your doctor thinks you may have Reference asthma Opens New Window, more tests may be done after you inhale a substance (methacholine or histamine) that narrows (constricts) your airways. This is called a bronchoprovocation test. It may be done while you sit in a small airtight room (plethysmograph booth) similar to a telephone booth. The amount of narrowing in your airways can help diagnose some conditions. This testing may take as long as 2 hours.
• Reference Arterial blood gases (ABGs) Opens New Window, which determine the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your bloodstream, may be measured before, during, or after your lung function tests. For more information, see the topic Reference Arterial Blood Gases.
• Some lung function tests can be done at home. For more information, see the topic Reference Home Lung Function Test.

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